Ahead of the UK Budget announcement on Wednesday, MCR Pathways calls on the UK Government to honour its previous pledges through tangible commitments that ensure every young person has equal educational outcomes, career opportunities, and life chances.
Child Poverty is the top priority for us all and urgently needs to be tackled through dedicated, sustainable investment and long-term fiscal controls. The two-child limit has been one of the single biggest drivers attributed to the recent rise in child poverty across the UK (Child Poverty Action Group).
As such, it is critical that the Government guarantee an end to the two-child limit to bridge the gap of poverty for children and families; as 350,000 children would be lifted out of poverty and 700,000 in less deep poverty (Child Poverty Action Group).
It is crucial that the Government demonstrates clear leadership by fully supporting the Child Poverty Taskforce. This support must prioritise an urgent, cross-Governmental solutions-based Child Poverty Strategy, built on non-negotiable steadfast commitments that achieve real progress in the eradication of child poverty across the UK.
The UK Government has the chance to fulfil previous commitments to the future workforce through:
- Its pledge to have two-thirds of the UK’s young people in higher-level learning by age 25 (UK Government). Delivering this commitment is essential to ensure young people can fulfil their aspirations and potential in a post-school destination that is right for them while making real steps to improve productivity in the UK in the medium and long terms.
- Ensuring sustainable, long-term investment for the recently announced Youth Guarantee. Establishing equitable access for young people from all backgrounds, minimal barriers to entry, and all resulting secure employment opportunities, offering fair pay and conditions.
Continued measures and investment to positively improve the lives of the Care Experienced Community in the UK is seen as vital by MCR Pathways & partners serving Care Experienced Communities.
A key driver is the commitment to developing, integrating and building capability of the existing volunteer mentor/advocacy networks to create a Core Offer of a Trusted Adult Guarantee for all Care Experienced Young People. A Trusted Adult is one of the single most important factors for young people’s likelihood of successfully transitioning into adulthood, a transition more heightened and difficult for Care Experienced Young People. This Core Offer can contribute to Care Experienced Children and Young People’s rights being fully respected and upheld.
It is essential that the Government continues to work to create the best possible start and future for all young people across the UK.
For further information about our policy and influencing work, please contact – policy@mcrpathways.org
